The Constitution makes clear that Congress approves the federal budget and appropriates funds. Through our votes, we give that authority to our representatives. But once again, the administration is usurping Congress—and by extension, taking away the power of “we, the people.”

On June 30, the White House and Secretary of Education Linda McMahon announced they are withholding nearly $7 billion that was appropriated by Congress for a well-rounded curriculum, technology, and other services, including summer and after-school programs and support for migrant students and English learners. The money was to be released July 1.

Take a look at this NEA chart to see how this illegal withholding of funds affects your state. This New America analysis shows the district-by-district impact.

NEA President Becky Pringle called withholding these funds “a cruel betrayal of students, especially those who rely on critical support services” and “part of a broader pattern by this administration of undermining public education.”

The pattern emerged soon after Inauguration Day, when the administration began dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. NEA filed a lawsuit in federal district court with the NAACP, public school parents, and AFSCME Maryland Council 3 to prevent the closure. Last week, NEA asked for a preliminary injunction to halt multiple unlawful actions, including the withholding of funds appropriated by Congress.

Public education is the foundation of our democracy, and NEA members are leading the fight to protect it. Tell Congress to join us!

Check out our new toolkit on protecting students and public schools. It includes tips on making an impact, messaging ideas, sample social media, and talking points to help you advocate on key issues: education funding, Medicaid and children’s health care, and voucher schemes.

In solidarity,